CHRIS WILDER is set to be named Barnsley boss.
Wilder, 54, has been out of work since leaving Sheffield United in March — a month before the Blades were relegated from the Premier League.
But he is now favourite to replace Markus Schopp, who was axed by Oakwell chiefs yesterday.
Wilder tops a Tykes wanted list that includes former Barnsley defender Mick McCarthy, sacked as Cardiff boss ten days ago, plus ex-Norwich and Preston chief Alex Neil.
Austrian Schopp, 47, got the bullet after just 15 Championship games — having won only once and with the team 23rd.
Schopp, appointed in June on a three-year deal, said: “I would like to thank all those who have accompanied me in this short but very intense time.
“It is a pity that our hard work was not reflected in the results. I wish the club all the best for the future and that they will achieve all their goals.”
Barnsley chief executive Khaled El-Ahmad said: “On behalf of everyone at Oakwell, I would like to thank Markus for the last few months and wish him well for the next step in his career.
“I would like supporters to know that the process for finding a suitable replacement is under way and we will announce a new appointment in due course.”
Wilder took charge of the Blades in 2016 and led them from League One to the Premier League in just three years.
He enjoyed his greatest season in charge during the 2019-2020 season when they finished ninth, but had been in the race to qualify for Europe.
Unfortunately for Wilder, his fortunes drastically changed the following campaign and in March 2021, Wilder left the club by mutual consent.
Sheffield United were bottom of the league and failed to beat the drop, currently sitting 17th in the Championship.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
